The Science of Baking

“An essential book for anyone looking to understand and improve their baking” Tom Kerridge
“Part masterclass, part laboratory, and totally inspiring. Matt Adlard brings clarity and precision to the mysteries of baking, showing not just how to make something work, but why it works” Helen Goh

Discover the secrets of the professionals to achieve perfect bakes, every time

Whether you're a baking novice or a star baker, The Science of Baking is your cheat sheet for understanding what really happens in the kitchen. Matt Adlard – bestselling author, self-taught baker, and pastry chef – demystifies the science behind your favorite bakes, so you can recreate them in your own kitchen with show-stopping results.

With more than 50 recipes – including showstoppers like Vanilla Burnt Basque Cheesecake, Rosemary Focaccia, Pistachio and Orange Biscotti, and Black Forest Swiss Roll – plus step-by-step photography and troubleshooting tips on cake decorations, gluten-free baking, and baking the perfect sourdough bread: this comprehensive baking book is everything you need to understand and explore the art and science of baking.

Discover what makes brownies fudgy, chewy, or cakey, how to achieve fluffy risen soufflés and meringues, why fermentation and hydration affect the structure of sourdough, and how to laminate pastry for flakey, golden croissants.

Dive into the chemistry of ingredients – with detailed illustrations and microscopic imagery – learn how to master your oven, and unlock essential techniques to create unbeatable flavor and finesse at home.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs